Cross River State, in the southeast of Nigeria, is home to cultural and tourist attractions and educational institutions. Comprising a blend of federal, state, and private universities, it is an academic hub for students across the country.
These schools range from affordable, government-subsidized options to high-end private universities that offer specialized programs.
In this article, we take a look at the several universities in Cross River state, their tuition fee and what makes them unique. It also offers advice on choosing the right university for your academic and financial objectives.
Cheap and Expensive Universities in Cross River and Their Fees: A Comprehensive Guide
1. University of Calabar (UNICAL)
History and Overview
The University of Calabar is among the most prominent federal universities in Nigeria. Founded in 1975, it was originally a campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, until it became autonomous. UNICAL, situated in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, has been a long-standing provider of quality education and stakeholders in national development through various academic programs.
It is widely known for medical, law, and humanities programs, as well as science and technology fields. UNICAL provides degrees at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels and in a variety of disciplines, making it an attractive option for students looking to pursue career paths in diverse sectors.
UNICAL is one of Nigeria’s top 10 most affordable universities with tuition fees between ₦25,000 − ₦50,000 per session, course depending! As such, it’s one of the most affordable options for anyone looking to pursue higher education in the region without emptying their pockets. Besides, it provides everything a student needs to have a rich campus life these days such as hostels, sports facilities and a complete library system.
The university also has a noted alumni foundation and relevant research opportunities, most prominently in the sciences and humanities. The university’s medical faculty is especially renowned; it operates a teaching hospital dedicated to medical students and offers practical clinical training.
Programs Offered
UNICAL offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses such as:
- Medicine and Surgery, Public Health (Faculty of Medicine)
- Faculty of Law: LLB in Law.
- Science: Biochemistry. Chemistry. Computer Science.
- Social Sciences; Political Science; Economics; Sociology
- Humanities: Philosophy, English and Literary Studies, History.
Facilities
- A single library that offers living resources—both physical and database.
- Laboratories for medical and science students (well equipped).
- Student Budgets Hostels:
- Sports and recreational amenities to enhance well-being.
- Football Holding Steads & Targets
They charge yearly tuition fees of about ₦25,000 to ₦50,000.
Situated in the state capital, it is easily reachable by road and public transport.
Why Choose UNICAL?
For students who want to get a good education at a low cost, UNICAL is the right choice. It is particularly appropriate for students who are considering careers in medicine, law, or the sciences.
2. Cross River University of Technology (UNICROSS)
History and Overview
Cross River University of Technology (UNICROSS) is a state-owned institution established in 2002 to provide quality education, to people best in technology and sciences. UNICROSS, situated in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, in Nigeria; is a citadel of knowledge, it is enabling local and international students to experience practical learning.
Focused on training in very technical vocational and industry-based disciplines, the university has successfully bridged the gap between education and the needs of the industry. Hence, UNICROSS has a great reputation for graduating students who have been given the skills needed for the modern workplace.
The institution is one of the best colleges in the state for students pursuing engineering, environmental sciences, and applied sciences, because of its focus on technology and technical training.
Moreover, the university provides a peaceful atmosphere for study. Due to its numerous campuses throughout the state, including in Calabar, Obubra, and Ogoja, UNICROSS is easily reachable by students from diverse areas of the region. It is also known to be warm and friendly, with students and faculty working together toward academic excellence.
Since its establishment, UNICROSS has gradually grown into a multidisciplinary higher education institution, known for its competitiveness and affordability, providing higher education as a necessity for socio-economic development in Cross River state.
It has also improved learning and student accommodation facilities. Even as an institution compared to UNICAL, UNICROSS has established itself as a cut out of the responsive cloth of education with its curricular spread, ensuring education for all.
Overall, UNICROSS offers excellent value for home and international students who want to gain practical experience in fields such as technology and applied sciences at an affordable price.
Programs Offered
Below are the various Courses offered by UNICROSS via her campuses:
- Engineering and Technology: Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Civil Engineering.
- Environmental Sciences: Architect & Urban Planning.
- Natural Sciences: Maths, Biology.
- SHAMSHAD, Degree in Arts and Management: Mass Communication, Business Administration.
Facilities
Accommodation on campuses (major campuses Calabar, Obubra.)
Sports spaces are good for leisure and competition.
Tuition fees
The yearly fee is between ₦35,000 and ₦60,000.
It is available to students from all over as it has campuses in multiple locations across Cross River.
Why Choose UNICROSS?
With its affordability and quality, UNICROSS is one of the best choices for students studying engineering, technology, and management-related programs.
3. Arthur Jarvis University (AJU)
History and Overview
It is one of the 6 universities established in the state recently, more prominent is its 2016 establishment of the Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Calabar.
One of the newest private universities in the region, AJU has rapidly built a reputation as a higher education leader, especially in academic quality, professional training, and social commitment.
Established in 1913 and named after Sir Arthur Jarvis, a leading businessman and philanthropist, the university aimed to deliver high-quality yet affordable education, particularly in health sciences, business, and social sciences.
The main philosophy behind the university is to provide an education that inspires, enlightens, and educates.
An enabling environment to learn is available with it being located outside of the noise and distractions of the busy Calabar metropolis in a serene environment in the Akpabuyo area.
It is to help them focus, be creative, and evolve.” AJU, with state-of-the-art facilities, and contemporary infrastructure, opened all divine means for students to explore in the respective domain.
A nationally recognized segment of the Princeton campus, Highlanders is a group of innovators and researchers focused on delivering real-world, hands-on study experiences that reinforce theoretical learning for students.
Highlights Of Arthur Jarvis University.
Here are some unique characteristics that makeup Arthur Jarvis University and its brand as a new academic institution.
1. Pedagogy: University pedagogy is focused on student-centered learning, where teachers are mentors and facilitators providing students the resources to thrive. The approach ensures that students are engaged and driven to solve problems with their help.
2. Well-Equipped Infrastructure and Facilities: AJU has an ultra-modern infrastructure with the latest classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and recreation facilities. Built to enhance student engagement, the campus features spaces for collaboration, social interaction, and personal contemplation.
3. Specialization In Health Sciences And Professional Courses: Arthur Jarvis University is known for its excellence in Health Sciences related courses such as nursing, public health, and medical laboratory science. They include diverse areas such as business, social sciences, and law, all established with a pragmatic and professional focus.
4. Ethical and Moral Training: Apart from academic rigor, AJU stresses ethical conduct and moral responsibility. While it has given students a grounding in solid personal ideals that will strengthen their eventual professional lives and help them serve communities in the coming years, this may not be enough.
Programs Offered
- Nursing, Public health, Medical Laboratory science, etc.
- More Business and Social Sciences: Accounting and Banking Finance
- Arts & Humanities: Violin Performance. Natural Sciences: Biochemistry, Computer Science.
- Law: LLB in Law.
Facilities
- Smart classrooms equipped with advanced learning tech.
- Registered dormitory with added security features.
- A medical center and fitness facilities for students’ wellness.
Cost and Access
Tuition fees ₦400,000-₦500,000 per year
University: The school is easily accessible via Calabar and neighboring towns.
Why Choose AJU?
Arthur Jarvis University offers a range of programs and opportunities for students seeking a unique and dynamic learning environment.
4. Havilla University
History and Overview
Havilla University — Private Institution with a Difference Havilla University is among Nigeria’s newest private tertiary institutions, established in 2021. The university, located at Nde-Ikom of Cross River State, was founded with the need for quality higher education for Nigerian undergraduate students, specifically those desiring to study the sciences, technology, and the arts.
One of the newly established Havilla University has been the center of attraction for academic excellence, innovative teaching, and holistic development of the students.
The colourful campus of Havilla UniversityLocationHavilla University is located in the serene and beautiful town of Nde-Ikom, it has a conducive atmosphere for study, research, and social interaction. It was founded as part of the larger mission to promote access to quality higher education, especially in the Cross River region and the eastern part of the country.
This name means “Havilla,” which represents prosperity and growth, corresponding with its higher purpose of fostering education and career development.
A few months after its establishment, Havilla has quickly become a virtual space for engaging and practical learning. It is an academic program in all its rights, with the right balance of theory and practice.
However, we noticed that students need to start focusing on the field where they are going to apply it, giving them practical, and theoretical knowledge.
Programs Offered
- Sciences: Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology.
- Business Administration: Management Sciences
- English and Literary Studies (PG. arts.)
Facilities
- Digital research hubs and ICT laboratories.
- On-Campus Accommodations You Can Count On
- Holistic development is ensured with recreational & sports facilities.
Financial Availability and Approachability
Tuition per year is ₦350,000 — ₦450,000.
You can reach the university quite easily from anywhere in the state.
Why Choose Havilla?
Havilla is a private university but still provides a contemporary learning space at a more affordable rate than older ones.
5. Duke Medical University
History and Overview
Duke Medical University is one of the most respected institutions of higher learning that focuses on quality education with particular recognition in medical and health sciences. Duke Medical University was established with the vision of developing the future generation of healthcare professionals who will play a critical role in medical practice, health improvement as well as research in Nigeria, and around the world.
Consequently, despite Duke Medical University being a young institution, it has gained a reputation as a top institution that provides first-class health education, and training, and spearheads research activities. Indeed, Duke Medical University was established to meet an urgent need for highly skilled professionals in Nigeria’s health field.
The organization was established based on the premise that high-quality medical education is essential in enhancing the health sector in Nigeria; thus, Duke Medical University puts high importance on academic excellence, practical experience, and research. Moreover, it has developed programs that prepare graduates to tackle real-life medical challenges, thus enabling them to contribute positively towards public health.
Duke Medical University is one of the prominent private universities in Nigeria that focuses on producing exceptional professionals in medical fields. Ultimately, its state-of-the-art facilities including well-stocked laboratories, hospitals, and research institutions create an enabling environment for academic excellence among the students.
Programs Offered:
- Medicine and Surgery.
- Nursing Science.
- Public Health.
- Medical Laboratory Science.
- Facilities
- Medical labs and simulation centres.
- Hostels designed for Health Science Students
- A teaching hospital for practical clinical instruction.
What We Look for When Researching Every Buy Now, Pay Later Plan
Annual tuition fees range from ₦500,000 to ₦700,000.
Situated in Calabar, students from both the state and beyond can easily access it.
So why attend Duke Medical University?
This university is best suited for students most interested in pursuing careers in medicine and related fields with access to cutting-edge facilities and training.
How to Select the Right University
Choosing a university is undoubtedly important as it largely shapes your academic and professional future. Here’s how to choose smartly:
1. Identify Your Goals
Seek to understand your academic and professional goals. Duke Medical University or University of Calabar (commonly known as UNICAL) may be preferred by students going for medicine or related fields in medicine.
2. Assess Financial Capacity
Tuition fees and other expenses like feeding, accommodation, and books. UNICAL probably measures up in affordability whereas Arthur Jarvis University meets premium services.
3. Research Programs
Check if the university provides accredited programs in your field of interest. Some institutions focus on technology (UNICROSS) or health sciences (Duke Medical University)
4. Assessing Location and Accessibility
Think about how far it is from your home, the cost to travel there and what the campus is like. Both UNICAL and UNICROSS can be easily reached all over the state.
5. Make sure there are adequate facilities and resources
Check out the facilities such as the lab, library and hostel. Private schools such as AJU and Havilla frequently have better facilities.
6. Research Scholarships and Financial Aid
Search for scholarships to help lessen the cost.
Scholarship Opportunities
1. Federal Scholarships
Available to students in federal universities like UNICAL.
2. State Bursaries
This job is for residents of Cross River State Only.
3. Private University Scholarships
Merit and need-based scholarships are offered at Arthur Jarvis University.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest university?
UNICAL is the cheapest, with fees as low as ₦25,000 yearly.
Do private schools give scholarships?
Yes, private universities such as AJU and Havilla offer scholarships to deserving candidates.
Which university is the best for medicine?
Duke Alpine Medical University and UNICAL, as a teaching hospital and a physical University, excel in medical education.
Conclusion
To make a good choice for the university in Cross River State, one needs to consider academic objectives, economic capability, and other personal attributes. From the ever-affordable UNICAL to the very premium Duke Medical University, genZ has the most variety of quality education at its disposal. With extensive research and the judicious use of scholarships, students can reach their academic goals without excessive financial stress.
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